Radiation and Laser Safety supports the safe and compliant use of radioactive materials, radiation-producing equipment, and lasers at UNT. The program provides guidance, training, review, and oversight for research, teaching, and operational activities involving ionizing and non-ionizing radiation.

Radiation Safety Committee

The Radiation Safety Committee (RSC) provides oversight for the Radiation Safety Program. The committee includes authorized users of radioactive materials, users of ionizing radiation equipment, and the Radiation Safety Officer.

Research Using Radionuclides, X-ray Equipment, or Lasers

Full-time members of the academic faculty may request authorization to possess or use radioactive materials, radiation-producing equipment, or lasers for research. Requests must be submitted to the Radiation Safety Officer for review by the Radiation Safety Committee.

To begin the review process, submit a Request Authorization to Use Lasers for Research form.

Training

Personnel who work with radioactive materials, radiation-producing equipment, or lasers must complete required Radiation Safety Training before beginning work and as required thereafter.

The authorized principal investigator is responsible for providing equipment-specific and laboratory-specific training for personnel working under their authorization.

Procurement of Radioactive Materials, X-ray Equipment, and Lasers

Radioactive materials, X-ray equipment, and lasers must be purchased in accordance with UNT procurement and Radiation Safety Program requirements. Direct purchases of radioactive materials are prohibited.

Radioisotope deliveries must be made to the Radiation Safety Office unless the Radiation Safety Committee grants a written exception. The Radiation Safety Officer should be notified before purchasing X-ray equipment, Class 3B lasers, or Class 4 lasers.

Animal Use

Use of radioactive materials in animals requires approval from the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and the Radiation Safety Committee. Approval from the Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) may also be required depending on the research.

Contact the Radiation Safety Officer for guidance before using radioactive materials in animal research.